Michael S. Regan, EPA Administrator | https://en.wikipedia.org/
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) have announced a significant funding initiative to tackle methane emissions from the oil and gas sector. A total of $850 million has been allocated for 43 projects aimed at reducing, monitoring, measuring, and quantifying methane emissions across the country. This funding is part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda.
EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan emphasized the importance of these investments, stating, “Today, we’re continuing to build on strong standards and historic progress to cut methane pollution and protect communities across the country.” The projects are expected to support small businesses while deploying advanced technologies to reduce harmful pollution.
U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm highlighted the public health benefits of reducing pollution from the oil and gas sector, noting that this investment will also aid energy communities by upgrading equipment and improving supply chains.
John Podesta, Senior Advisor to the President for International Climate Policy, pointed out that tackling methane pollution is crucial for meeting climate goals. He stated that these awards would help reduce local pollution while benefiting workers and communities.
In EPA’s Southeastern Region, two notable projects were selected for funding: M2X Energy, Inc., based in Rockledge, Florida, received $5,999,720 in federal funding for its project involving modular gas-to-methanol plants; meanwhile, the University of Kentucky Research Foundation secured $5,999,826 in federal funding for developing methane emissions reduction technology.
Jeaneanne Gettle from EPA’s Southeastern Regional Office expressed enthusiasm about these regional grants: “Methane emissions are a potent source of greenhouse gas emissions that adversely affect climate.”
This initiative is part of a broader effort under the Inflation Reduction Act's Methane Emissions Reduction Program which aims to reduce wasteful methane emissions through financial and technical assistance provided by both EPA and DOE.
The program underscores efforts by the Biden-Harris Administration to achieve ambitious climate goals while promoting clean air and public health.
